Helping Horses, Helping People
Philosophy of Training
Understanding
To understand is to percieve and comprehend the nature and signifigance of, or to grasp a concept.
Understanding the natural instincts between horses and humans is imperative in developing effective communication. It is important that we respect the horse as an animal of prey and to consider the concerns that may arise for the horse in our attempt to build a working relationship. A key component in understanding the horse is to educate ourselves in the ways horses communicate with one another. We have to establish boundaries and rules and remain consistent and steadfast with these, ultimately influencing the horse to see us as the leader.
Persistence
To insist is to be obstinately repitious, insistent, or tenacious; to hold firmly to your purpose. To refuse to give up in order to achieve a goal.
Persistence is the act of continuously performing the same actions until the horse understands what you are asking. A strong leader is one that is clear in his or her request and does not change the direction or focus.
Patience
To have patience is to calmly await an outcome while enduring trying circumstances with even temper.
Patience involves allowing the horse to make mistakes, but through preserverance, continuing to lead the horse to your desired behavior. Ask, then release the pressure, and you have communicated to the horse that he has succeeded in what you have asked.
One of my favorite Bible verses that I lean on for hope is Matthew 7:7-8: Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find; knock and the door will be open to you. For everyone who asks receives, he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.
I often find myself relating to this verse while working horses. In understanding the horses nature and being persistent, with patience you will recieve a partner and build a relationship with your horse beyond your imagination.
